T5 Strings

[Cooperro]

I've gone back and forth between the 11s it came with, and 12s. Does anyone find this frustrating? I mean, I can bend and play nice fills (Eagles, blues, etc.) while accompanying another acoustic with 11s. But the T5 just sounds "better" with 12s for acoustic and jazz sounds, but I lose the ability to bend (blues, rock, country licks, etc.).

Maybe there's a brand of 11s that'll fit the bill. Maybe a light top/heavy bottom (I can't find them in 11s, only 10s)?

All opinions welcome.

Bob
South Florida

[Cooperro]

I just ordered a dozen sets of strings from Musician's Friend. All 11-52 sets (close enough to lite top/heavy bottom), some with wound 3rds. One of 'em's gotta make me smile. The 12s I have on her now sound awesome, except when it comes to bendin' 'em. I didn't want to go bigger than a 52 bottom 'cause I tried heavier, and they just wouldn't fit!

I'll let you know if I find something I like.

[ericjungemann]

The string thing is a dilemma. 

I like the heavies because of the stable strumming platform but can only get a half-step bend.  But, due to short scale, much easier to play than standard acoustic.  The increased mass and tension helps the acoustic sound as well.

Obviously the mediums allow more electric bends.

Great to have a guitar that can do both.

I'd love to hear about your string adventures.

Maybe there is a perfect middle ground.

Eric

[Cooperro]

Will get back to you all with my findings. I'm very scientific (anal) in my ways, so it'll be awhile as I give each set a chance.

Right now I have D'Addario EJ21's loaded, which I totally love for acoustic, jazz, and teaching my chorus (I'm an elementary school music teacher). But I never forget that the T5 has three more switch positions for electric guitar, which literally demands the ability to bend.

I think I bought seven different sets, so it'll take some time...

[ewalling]

I don't have a T5, but I do have a comparable instrument - the Godin Multiac Spectrum:



Like the T5, it has an acoustic bridge pickup together with an electric pickup next to the fretboard, and the sounds of these two pickups can be blended or separated, according to choice. Recently, I came across some strings called DR Zebras, so called because they are made up of alternate phosphor bronze and nickel plated steel filaments. This means that you get a richer acoustic response while retaining the electric sound when you want it. They sell these at Strings and beyond, and the gauges come in either 11,15,22,30,40,50 or 12,16,24,32,42,54 (which I use). Anyway, they might be worth a spin on your T5.

P.S. Sorry, Bob, I didn't read your post carefully enough. I see your question is focused on gauge, not type.

[dcopper]

Having used and tried just about all strings for the T5, I strongly suggest the 12-52 Elixir electrics. You really don't lose acoustic tone and your electric tone sounds good. You need to up the gauge to get the wound G to stabilize tuning. I think you will find this adds to the versatility of the T5 and keeps all your tonal options open.
davidc

[coldshot]

I'm with Dave on this and once I started using Elixer electric .012's I've never changed.

I actually don't find them too hard to bend at all. Although most of my acoustics are set up with .013's.

Good luck with your search keep us informed.